Key takeaways
- Nearly half of all adults are battling with high blood pressure.
- CBD helps to improve heart health.
- CBD is great for stress management.
How serious is high blood pressure?
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a serious health challenge. that often goes unnoticed because it doesn't show clear symptoms until it's advanced. Information from the CDC shows that nearly half of all adults are battling with high blood pressure. The severity and fatal outcome of high blood pressue is common because it often goes unnoticed. The condition doesn't show clear symptoms until it's advanced. This is why it's sometimes called the "silent killer." If left unchecked, it can silently harm the arteries, heart, and other organs.
One of the major reasons why high blood pressure is a serious issue is its association with heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. It causes the arteries to harden and narrow, putting extra strain on the heart. When blood pressure stays high for a long time, the heart has to work harder, potentially leading to an enlarged heart and, in severe cases, heart failure. The risk of stroke also increases as high blood pressure damages blood vessels in the brain or causes blood clots.
Kidneys can be affected too, with hypertension interfering with their ability to filter blood properly, possibly leading to chronic kidney disease. Vision problems and damage to the blood vessels in the eyes are additional risks. Another concern is the potential for aneurysms, where blood vessels weaken and bulge, possibly rupturing, which is life-threatening. High blood pressure is also linked to cognitive decline, increasing the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Globally, hypertension is a significant health issue, impacting a large portion of the population and placing a substantial burden on healthcare systems. The good news is that high blood pressure is often preventable and manageable. Simple lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and managing stress, can help. Use of CBD and other cannabinoid-based products have also shown a good level of success. Let’s take a look at how this is possible.
How pure CBD can improve blood pressure
- Vasodilation and Blood Flow:
Research confirms that CBD might do something pretty cool—it could make blood vessels wider, kind of like opening up a road for better traffic. This is called vasodilation. Why does it matter? Well, wider blood vessels might mean better blood flow, like ensuring a smooth ride on that road. People are curious if this could help with controlling blood pressure, like maintaining a good flow in the body's traffic system.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, and inflammation can play a role in cardiovascular health. By reducing inflammation, CBD may have indirect benefits on blood pressure.
Scientists have done some serious digging and found that CBD does lowers the levels of troublemaking pro-inflammatory cytokines, kind of like calming down rowdy troublemakers. CBD also puts a brake on T cell growth, which are like the soldiers of our immune system, stopping them from going into overdrive. It even tells some of these T cells to say their goodbyes through a process called apoptosis. Lastly, CBD makes it harder for immune cells to move around and stick to places they shouldn't. It's like CBD is the superhero that keeps our immune system balanced and in check.
CBD is able to achieve all this by interacting with the endocannabinoid system or ECS. The ECS is also known as the universal modulator because it modulates the activities of several parts of our bodies including immunity.
- Stress Reduction:
Stress plays a significant role in hypertension. When we're stressed, our bodies go into a "fight or flight" mode, releasing hormones like adrenaline. This normal response, when prolonged, can lead to issues. Stress makes the heart beat faster, putting extra strain on it and increasing blood pressure. It also causes blood vessels to narrow, raising the pressure of blood flow.
Additionally, stress influences the body to retain more sodium and water, increasing blood volume. Unhealthy coping habits like overeating or smoking during stress contribute to weight gain, impacting blood pressure. Chronic stress can lead to persistent high blood pressure. CBD's anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects may help individuals manage stress By promoting relaxation, CBD may have a positive impact on stress-related increases in blood pressure.
How to use CBD for blood pressure
If you're considering using CBD for blood pressure, it's important to approach it with care and consult with a professional. While research on CBD and blood pressure is still in its early stages, and individual responses can vary, here are general considerations:
- Choose High-Quality CBD Products: Opt for reputable CBD products from trustworthy brands. Look for third-party testing to ensure the product's quality, purity, and potency. This is to make sure you don’t end up purchasing contaminated CBD products that may end-up damaging your body.
- Start with Low Doses: always remember the golden CBD dosage rule; “start small and go slow.” Start with a very low dose and continue your way up. Our body chemistry differs and may sometimes require time to adjust to new things. You can start with as low as 10 to 25 mg then increase it gradually until you discover the CBD sweet spot.
- Consider Full-Spectrum CBD: Some research suggests that full-spectrum CBD, which contains a range of cannabinoids, may have a more pronounced effect than isolated CBD. This is why Nesas Hemp is focused on full spectrum CBDa organic hemp products. Our organic hemp products come with different minor cannabinoids like CBDa, CBC, CBG and CBN. These cannabinoids contributes to the overall effect of the product.
- Monitor Blood Pressure: Regularly monitor your blood pressure, especially when introducing CBD. This allows you and your healthcare professional to assess any changes.
- Be Aware of Interactions: CBD can interact with certain medications, including those for blood pressure. Inform your healthcare professional about all medications and supplements you are taking.
- Lifestyle Factors: Remember that lifestyle factors play a crucial role in blood pressure management. Alongside CBD, focus on maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, managing stress, and other lifestyle choices.
Frequently asked questions
Can CBD help lower blood pressure?
Yes, CBD can lower blood pressure. This is evident in the way CBD promotes relaxation and opens the veins for easy flow of blood.
What is the recommended dosage of CBD for managing hypertension?
Dosage can vary among individuals, and there isn't a one-size-fits-all recommendation. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing, under the guidance of a professional, is typically advised.
Are there specific types of CBD products better suited for hypertension?
The choice between CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD depends on individual preferences and responses. Some studies suggest that full-spectrum CBD may have a more pronounced effect due to the entourage effect, but individual experiences may differ.
Can CBD interact with blood pressure medications?
Yes, CBD can interact with certain medications, including those for blood pressure. Ensure you discuss your choice of CBD products with a CBD expert.
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Sources
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Garza-Cervantes JA, Ramos-González M, Lozano O, Jerjes-Sánchez C, García-Rivas G. Therapeutic Applications of Cannabinoids in Cardiomyopathy and Heart Failure. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2020 Oct 27;2020:4587024. doi: 10.1155/2020/4587024. PMID: 33194003; PMCID: PMC7641267.